Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A travel route generation apparatus comprising: a work field data input interface via which work field data are to be input, the work field data including data regarding a shape of a work field in which an agricultural work vehicle is configured to move a work device, the work device being linked to the agricultural work vehicle; a handwriting input interface via which a handwriting locus is to be input, the handwriting locus comprising successive movement of a depressed point on the handwriting input interface; a memory to store travel route patterns; and circuitry configured to select a designated travel route pattern from the travel route patterns based on the handwriting locus, and generate, based on the designated travel route pattern, the work field data, and vehicle data, a travel route along which the agricultural work vehicle is to travel in the work field, the vehicle data including a width of the work device and a turning radius of the agricultural work vehicle equipped with the work device.
This invention relates to a system for generating travel routes for agricultural work vehicles, addressing the challenge of efficiently planning paths for vehicles equipped with work devices (e.g., plows, harvesters) within a work field. The system includes an input interface for receiving data about the field's shape and dimensions, a handwriting input interface allowing users to sketch a rough travel pattern, and a memory storing predefined travel route patterns. Circuitry processes the handwritten input to select the closest matching pattern, then generates an optimized travel route based on the field data, vehicle specifications (such as work device width and turning radius), and the selected pattern. The system ensures the vehicle follows a practical, efficient path while accounting for physical constraints like turning limitations and device width, improving productivity and reducing overlap or missed areas. The handwriting input simplifies route planning by allowing users to quickly sketch desired paths, which the system refines into a precise, executable route. This approach combines user intuition with automated optimization to streamline agricultural operations.
2. The travel route generation apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein a work field external shape based on the data regarding the shape of the work field is displayed on a display when the handwriting locus is input.
A travel route generation apparatus is designed for use in agricultural or industrial work fields, where precise navigation is required for tasks such as planting, harvesting, or material handling. The apparatus generates optimized travel routes for autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles operating within a defined work field. A key challenge in such systems is ensuring that the generated routes align accurately with the physical boundaries and constraints of the work field, which may vary in shape and size. The apparatus includes a display that visually represents the external shape of the work field based on stored data regarding its dimensions and boundaries. When a user inputs a handwritten locus (a path or trajectory) on the display, the apparatus dynamically displays the work field's external shape to provide real-time feedback. This ensures that the user can adjust the handwritten input to stay within the work field's boundaries, improving route accuracy and efficiency. The system may also incorporate additional features, such as obstacle detection or terrain analysis, to further refine the generated travel routes. By integrating visual feedback with user input, the apparatus enhances the precision and usability of route planning in dynamic work environments.
3. The travel route generation apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the work field data includes an obstruction.
A travel route generation apparatus is designed to create optimized paths for autonomous or robotic systems operating in dynamic environments, such as warehouses, construction sites, or agricultural fields. The apparatus addresses the challenge of navigating through complex workspaces that contain obstacles, uneven terrain, or other physical barriers that could impede movement. The system generates travel routes by analyzing work field data, which includes information about the physical layout, obstacles, and operational constraints of the environment. By processing this data, the apparatus determines feasible paths that avoid obstructions while ensuring efficient movement between designated points. The apparatus may also incorporate real-time updates to adjust routes dynamically as new obstacles or changes in the environment are detected. This ensures continuous safe and effective navigation, even in environments where conditions are subject to frequent modifications. The system enhances operational efficiency by minimizing travel time and reducing the risk of collisions or delays caused by unforeseen obstacles.
4. The travel route generation apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein, when possibly designated travel route patterns are selected from the travel route patterns, the possibly designated travel route patterns are displayed on a display, and wherein the designated travel route pattern is selectable from the possibly designated travel route patterns.
A travel route generation apparatus is designed to assist users in planning and selecting travel routes. The apparatus generates multiple travel route patterns based on user input, such as starting and destination points, preferences, or constraints. When multiple possible travel route patterns are generated, the apparatus displays these patterns on a display device, allowing the user to review and compare them. The user can then select a preferred travel route pattern from the displayed options. This selection process ensures that the user can choose the most suitable route based on factors like distance, time, or personal preferences. The apparatus may also incorporate additional features, such as real-time traffic data or user preferences, to refine the generated route patterns. The goal is to provide an efficient and user-friendly way to plan travel routes, improving decision-making and navigation for users.
5. The travel route generation apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein a handwriting input including the handwriting locus is to be input via the handwriting input interface, and wherein the circuitry is configured to extract the handwriting locus from the handwriting input.
A travel route generation apparatus is designed to create optimized travel routes based on user input. The apparatus includes a handwriting input interface that allows users to draw or sketch a desired travel path on a touch-sensitive display. The circuitry within the apparatus processes this handwritten input by extracting the handwriting locus, which represents the path or trajectory of the user's hand movements. This extracted locus is then analyzed to generate a travel route that follows or approximates the user's intended path. The apparatus may also incorporate additional features, such as route optimization algorithms, to refine the generated route for factors like distance, time, or road conditions. The system is particularly useful for applications where users prefer intuitive, gesture-based input over traditional text or map-based navigation methods. By converting handwritten paths into actionable travel routes, the apparatus simplifies the process of planning journeys, especially for users who find digital maps or voice commands less intuitive. The technology addresses the need for more natural and user-friendly route planning tools in navigation systems.
6. The travel route generation apparatus according to claim 5 , wherein a dividing line to divide the work field into work sections is to be input via the handwriting input interface, and wherein the designated travel route pattern is detected in each of the work sections.
This invention relates to a travel route generation apparatus for autonomous work vehicles, such as agricultural or industrial machines, that operate within a defined work field. The problem addressed is the need for efficient, customizable travel route planning that adapts to varying field conditions and operator preferences. The apparatus includes a handwriting input interface that allows a user to manually draw a dividing line on a display to segment the work field into multiple work sections. Each work section is then analyzed to detect a designated travel route pattern, which may include straight lines, curves, or other predefined path configurations. The apparatus generates an optimized travel route for the work vehicle within each section based on the detected pattern, ensuring efficient coverage while accommodating field boundaries, obstacles, or other constraints. The system may also incorporate additional features, such as adjusting the travel route in real-time based on sensor data or environmental changes, and providing visual feedback to the operator. The handwriting input allows for intuitive, flexible route customization without requiring complex programming or predefined templates. This approach improves operational efficiency, reduces manual planning effort, and enhances adaptability to different field layouts.
7. The travel route generation apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein an initial point of the travel route is to be input via the handwriting input interface.
A travel route generation system includes a handwriting input interface for receiving user-drawn travel routes on a map display. The system processes the handwritten input to generate a digital travel route, which can be edited, optimized, or shared. The system also allows users to input an initial point of the travel route via the handwriting interface, enabling intuitive route planning by directly drawing the starting location on the map. The system may further include features such as route optimization, real-time navigation, and integration with external mapping services. The handwriting input allows for natural and flexible route creation, addressing the limitations of traditional input methods like typing or selecting predefined points. The system ensures accurate interpretation of handwritten inputs by analyzing stroke patterns, map coordinates, and contextual data to convert freehand drawings into precise digital routes. This approach enhances user experience by providing a more intuitive and efficient way to plan travel paths.
8. The travel route generation apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising: a communicator to receive a position of the agricultural work vehicle, wherein an initial point of the travel route is set as the position of the agricultural work vehicle.
A travel route generation apparatus for agricultural work vehicles generates optimized travel routes for field operations. The apparatus determines a travel route based on field data, such as terrain, crop conditions, and obstacles, to maximize efficiency and minimize overlap or missed areas. The apparatus includes a communicator that receives the current position of the agricultural work vehicle, which is used as the initial point for the travel route. This ensures the route starts from the vehicle's actual location, reducing manual adjustments and improving operational accuracy. The apparatus may also incorporate additional features, such as dynamic route adjustments based on real-time sensor data or historical field performance, to further optimize the vehicle's path. The system enhances productivity by automating route planning while accounting for real-world conditions, reducing operator workload and improving coverage consistency.
9. The travel route generation apparatus according to claim 1 , comprising: a touch panel having the handwriting input interface.
A travel route generation apparatus includes a touch panel with a handwriting input interface to facilitate user interaction. The apparatus generates travel routes by analyzing user input, such as handwritten annotations or drawings, to determine preferred travel paths, points of interest, or constraints. The system processes the handwritten data to extract relevant information, such as desired destinations, waypoints, or travel preferences, and integrates this with map data to create optimized routes. The touch panel allows users to directly input route preferences, obstacles, or custom annotations, enhancing the personalization of travel planning. The apparatus may also incorporate additional features, such as real-time traffic updates or alternative route suggestions, to refine the generated travel routes based on dynamic conditions. The handwriting input interface enables intuitive and flexible route customization, addressing the need for user-friendly travel planning tools that accommodate diverse input methods.
10. The travel route generation apparatus according to claim 9 , wherein a work field external shape based on the external shape data of the work field is displayed on a display panel section of the touch panel when the user is inputting the handwriting locus.
This invention relates to a travel route generation apparatus for autonomous vehicles or robotic systems operating in a work field, such as agricultural or industrial environments. The apparatus addresses the challenge of efficiently generating travel routes by allowing users to manually input desired paths via a touch panel interface. The system captures the user's handwritten input as a locus, which is then processed to generate an optimized travel route for the vehicle or robot. The apparatus includes a display panel section that visually represents the work field's external shape, derived from external shape data, while the user is drawing the handwritten locus. This visual feedback helps the user accurately define the desired path within the work field boundaries. The system may also incorporate additional features, such as obstacle detection and avoidance, to ensure the generated route is safe and efficient. The apparatus is designed to simplify route planning by combining intuitive user input with automated optimization, reducing the need for complex programming or pre-defined path templates. The invention is particularly useful in dynamic environments where manual adjustments to travel routes are frequently required.
11. The travel route generation apparatus according to claim 9 , wherein, when possibly designated travel patterns are selected from the travel route patterns, the possibly designated travel route patterns are displayed on a display panel section of the touch panel, and wherein the designated travel route pattern is selectable from the possibly designated travel route patterns.
This invention relates to a travel route generation apparatus designed to assist users in selecting and visualizing travel routes. The apparatus addresses the challenge of efficiently presenting multiple travel route options to users, allowing them to choose the most suitable path based on their preferences. The system generates travel route patterns, which are predefined or dynamically calculated paths between locations. When multiple travel route patterns are available, the apparatus displays these possible options on a touch panel's display section. Users can then interact with the touch panel to select a desired travel route pattern from the displayed options. The touch panel serves as both an input and output interface, enabling intuitive interaction. The apparatus ensures that users can easily compare and choose from the presented travel route patterns, enhancing the route selection process. This functionality is particularly useful in navigation systems, travel planning applications, or any system requiring route visualization and selection. The invention improves user experience by providing clear, interactive route options, reducing decision complexity, and ensuring efficient route selection.
12. The travel route generation apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the circuitry is configured to select the designated travel route pattern from the travel route patterns via pattern recognition technology.
A travel route generation apparatus is designed to create optimized travel routes for users, particularly in navigation or logistics applications. The apparatus addresses the challenge of efficiently generating routes that meet specific user preferences or constraints, such as minimizing travel time, avoiding traffic, or adhering to predefined patterns. The apparatus includes circuitry that processes input data, such as user preferences, traffic conditions, and geographic information, to generate a travel route. The circuitry is further configured to select a designated travel route pattern from a set of predefined travel route patterns using pattern recognition technology. This allows the apparatus to identify and apply the most suitable route pattern based on the input data, improving the accuracy and efficiency of route generation. The pattern recognition technology may involve analyzing historical route data, user behavior, or environmental factors to match the most relevant travel route pattern. This approach enhances the adaptability of the apparatus to different scenarios, ensuring that the generated routes align with user needs and external conditions. The apparatus may also include additional features, such as real-time adjustments to the route based on changing conditions, further optimizing the travel experience.
13. The travel route generation apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising: a travel route pattern input interface via which the travel route patterns are inputted into the memory.
A travel route generation apparatus is designed to create optimized travel routes for users, particularly in navigation or logistics applications. The apparatus addresses the challenge of efficiently generating travel routes that meet specific user requirements, such as minimizing travel time, distance, or fuel consumption, while avoiding obstacles or traffic congestion. The apparatus includes a memory that stores travel route patterns, which are predefined templates or algorithms for generating routes based on different criteria. These patterns may include factors like road conditions, traffic rules, or user preferences. A travel route pattern input interface allows users or administrators to input or update these patterns into the memory, ensuring the system remains adaptable to changing conditions or new requirements. The apparatus also includes a processor that processes the travel route patterns to generate a travel route based on the user's starting point, destination, and any additional constraints. The generated route is then outputted to the user via a display or other output device. The input interface ensures that the system can be customized or updated with new patterns, improving flexibility and accuracy in route generation. This technology is particularly useful in navigation systems, logistics planning, and autonomous vehicle routing, where dynamic and efficient route generation is critical. The ability to input and update travel route patterns allows the system to adapt to real-world conditions and user needs.
14. The travel route generation apparatus according to claim 13 , wherein the memory is a volatile memory.
A travel route generation apparatus includes a processor and a memory storing instructions that, when executed, cause the processor to generate a travel route based on a user's travel request. The apparatus receives the request, which includes a departure location, a destination, and a travel condition. The processor then generates a travel route that satisfies the travel condition by selecting a route from a plurality of candidate routes. The selection is based on a comparison of the travel condition with route information associated with each candidate route. The apparatus also includes a display that outputs the generated travel route. The memory storing the instructions is a volatile memory, such as RAM, which allows for fast access and temporary storage of data during route generation. The system may also include a communication interface for receiving the travel request from a user device and transmitting the generated route back to the user. The apparatus may further optimize the route based on real-time factors like traffic or weather, ensuring efficient and dynamic travel planning. The volatile memory ensures quick processing and temporary storage of intermediate data, enhancing the system's responsiveness.
15. The travel route generation apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the memory is a non-volatile memory.
A travel route generation apparatus is designed to create optimized travel routes for users, addressing the need for efficient navigation in complex environments. The apparatus includes a processor and a memory, where the memory stores route data and user preferences. The processor analyzes this data to generate a travel route that minimizes travel time, distance, or other user-defined criteria. The memory is specifically a non-volatile memory, ensuring data persistence even when power is disconnected, which is critical for maintaining route information during device shutdowns or interruptions. This feature enhances reliability, particularly in applications where continuous power supply cannot be guaranteed, such as portable navigation devices or embedded systems in vehicles. The apparatus may also incorporate additional functionalities, such as real-time traffic updates or dynamic rerouting, to further optimize the travel experience. By leveraging non-volatile memory, the system ensures that route data remains intact and accessible, improving user convenience and system robustness.
16. A method for generating a travel route, comprising: inputting a handwriting locus comprising successive movement of a depressed point on a handwriting input interface; selecting, based on the handwriting locus, a designated travel route pattern from travel route patterns stored in a memory; and generating, based on the designated travel route pattern, work field data, and vehicle data, a travel route along which an agricultural work vehicle is to travel in a work field in which the agricultural work vehicle is configured to move a work device, the work device being linked to the agricultural work vehicle, the work field data including data regarding a shape of the work field, the vehicle data including a width of the work device and a turning radius of the agricultural work vehicle equipped with the work device.
This invention relates to a method for generating a travel route for an agricultural work vehicle equipped with a work device, such as a plow or harvester. The method addresses the challenge of efficiently planning vehicle paths in a work field while accounting for field shape, vehicle dimensions, and operational constraints. The method begins by capturing a handwriting locus, which represents the successive movements of a depressed point on a handwriting input interface, such as a touchscreen. This input is used to select a designated travel route pattern from a stored set of patterns in memory. The selected pattern is then used to generate a travel route for the agricultural vehicle, incorporating work field data and vehicle data. The work field data includes the shape of the field, while the vehicle data includes the width of the work device and the turning radius of the vehicle when equipped with the work device. The generated travel route ensures the vehicle follows an optimal path within the field, maximizing efficiency while avoiding collisions or unworkable areas. The method simplifies route planning by leveraging intuitive handwritten input, reducing the need for complex manual adjustments.
17. A travel route generation apparatus comprising: work field data input means via which work field data are to be input, the work field data including data regarding a shape of a work field in which an agricultural work vehicle is configured to move a work device, the work device being linked to the agricultural work vehicle; handwriting input means via which a handwriting locus is to be input, the handwriting locus comprising successive movement of a depressed point on the handwriting input means; storing means for storing travel route patterns; pattern selecting means for selecting a designated travel route pattern among the travel route patterns based on the handwriting locus; and travel route generating means for generating, based on the designated travel route pattern, the work field data, and vehicle data, a travel route along which the agricultural work vehicle is to travel in the work field, the vehicle data including a width of the work device and a turning radius of the agricultural work vehicle equipped with the work device.
This invention relates to a system for generating travel routes for agricultural work vehicles equipped with work devices, such as harvesters or mowers. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently planning optimal travel paths within a work field while accounting for vehicle and device constraints. The apparatus includes an input interface for receiving work field data, which defines the shape and boundaries of the field where the vehicle will operate. A handwriting input mechanism allows a user to sketch a desired travel pattern, which the system interprets as a series of connected points. The system stores predefined travel route patterns, such as parallel lines, zigzags, or circular paths, and compares the handwritten input against these patterns to select the closest match. Once a pattern is selected, the system generates a precise travel route by incorporating vehicle-specific data, including the width of the attached work device and the vehicle's turning radius. This ensures the route is feasible and maximizes coverage while minimizing overlaps or gaps. The system dynamically adjusts the route to fit the field's shape, ensuring efficient operation. The invention simplifies route planning by combining intuitive hand-drawn inputs with automated optimization, reducing manual effort and improving accuracy.
18. The travel route generation apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the circuitry is configured to select the designated travel route pattern from the travel route patterns such that the designated travel route pattern is most similar to the handwriting locus among the travel route patterns.
A travel route generation apparatus is designed to create travel routes based on handwritten input. The apparatus addresses the challenge of converting freeform handwritten paths into structured travel routes, ensuring the generated route closely matches the user's intended path. The system includes circuitry that processes handwritten input, represented as a handwriting locus, and compares it against a database of predefined travel route patterns. The circuitry selects the travel route pattern that is most similar to the handwritten input, ensuring the generated route aligns with the user's intended path. This selection process involves analyzing the spatial and directional characteristics of the handwritten input and matching them to the closest predefined pattern. The apparatus may also include additional features such as generating multiple route options, adjusting routes based on real-time constraints, or integrating with navigation systems to provide turn-by-turn guidance. The primary goal is to provide an intuitive way for users to define travel routes through handwriting, improving usability and accuracy in route planning.
Unknown
March 24, 2020
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